Mwepu, Daka to miss Mali games
The Zambia national team will be without skipper Enock Mwepu and striker Patson Daka for the September FIFA window friendly matches.
According to a statement by the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) monitored by the ZamFoot Crew, the duo have been knocked out by medical reasons.
Goalkeeper Toaster Nsabata has also been ruled out of today’s game due to injury but remains in contention for Monday.
“The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) wishes to inform its members and stakeholders that Chipolopolo captain Enock Mwepu and striker Patson Daka will no longer be available for the two international friendly matches against Mali due to medical reasons.
Additionally, goalkeeper Toaster Nsabata will not be part of today’s match due to injury but remains on the mend.”
FAZ General Secretary Adrian Kashala says the rest of the squad members are in good shape and are ready for this evening’s encounter in Bamako.
“It is with a deep sense of sadness that we announce the absence of Chipolopolo captain Enock Mwepu and Patson Daka in the two FIFA International Friendly matches against Mali in Bamako. The England based pair were the first players to arrive in Bamako alongside Sweden domiciled Emmanuel Banda but unfortunately will play no further part due to medical reasons,” Kashala told FAZ Media.
“We wish the afflicted players a quick recovery and thank them for having swiftly responded to national duty. We wish our team the best of luck as they fly our flag in the two matches against the Eagles of Mali. The technical bench and the players are eager to represent the nation on international duty.”
Zambia and the Eagles of Mali will square off on Friday at the Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako at 19:00 hours GMT (21H00 CAT).
Zambia will again play Mali on Monday, September 26th in the second A grade FIFA international friendly match.
The Chipolopolo are using the matches as part of preparation for the Ivory Coast 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers that will take place next year in March.